A Small Taste of DIYOSA

Dance Scenes

Hosting an event with Ballet Philippines provides a platform to showcase our performances and talented dancers. In-turn, these events then generate funds that support the progression of our
mission, vision and educational programs.

A Small Taste of DIYOSA

Special media guests previewed Ballet Philippines’ latest production, Carlo Calma’s DIYOSA, at the Theatre at Solaire

There was excitement in the air as special guests arrived at the Solaire Resort & Casino for a special sneak preview of Carlo Calma's Diyosa by Ballet Philippines. The new ballet with libretto by Carlo Calma had been kept under wraps for months, with the architect eager to give his first show an element of surprise. Calma has been working closely with Ballet Philippines’ Artistic Director Misha Martynyuk to realize his vision.

A select group of the press was invited to The Theatre at Solaire for a special luncheon. When the theater doors were finally opened, everybody was surprised to discover that lunch would literally be served on stage. Long tables for 30 guests were set up facing the 1,760 empty theater seats. It was a unique experience crafted by Solaire to celebrate this new partnership.

Members of the press dine on stage for the official launch of Carlo Calma's Diyosa

Members of the press join Ballet Philippines for the launch of Carlo Calma's Diyosa

The program began with BP's Public Relations Head Bianca Salonga welcoming the guests. She also delivered a special message from Ballet Philippines' President Kathleen Lior-Liechtenstein, who explained that the ballet aimed to shed light on the problem of climate change through the art of dance.

Ballet Philippines Bianca Salonga and Vogue's Audrey Carpio

Carlo Calma then took center stage, previewing the special costumes and sculptures he has created for the show. The avant-garde pieces, which are inspired by different aspects of Philippine culture, have that modern, sleek touch that has made Calma a celebrated name in the art world. Calma also announced that he will be releasing a limited edition book chronicling the conception and production of Diyosa.

Carlo Calma took center stage, previewing the special costumes and sculptures he has created for the show.

Carlo Calma talks about his libretto, set and costume design for Diyosa

A special three-course lunch by Chef Dionise Tormis of Solaire Resort Entertainment City was then served. Chef Dionise flexed his gastronomic talents by creating a new menu just for the occasion. Inspired by popular Filipino street foods, he served a selection of elevated local favorites that tickled the palette.

Course one was a bangus mousse dish served with saffron, butter fried quail eggs, fresh lumpia, and tanigue kinilaw.

The main course was a slow cooked beef short ribs cooked in the style of Pares. Side dishes included crispy Bicol express, garlic mashed potato, spring onions, and a bowl of garlic fried rice.

Finally, his dessert platters featured an array of sweet treats, such as honey-calamansi Cremeux, tablea brownies, chocnut crumble, strawberries, and mango ice cream.

After lunch, it was time for the big event. Calma announced that the preview was just a small sneak peek of things to come, as Diyosa promises a lot of surprises. The house-lights dimmed and contemporary electronic music began to play over the theater stereo. Ballet dancers in modern body suits dance around Calma’s sun-inspired sculpture. The performance was short but sweet, giving viewers a small taste of an artist’s passion project.